UPDATE: Over the recent holiday weekend, law enforcement in Nez Perce County reported a staggering rise in DUI arrests, with a total of eight individuals booked for driving under the influence between December 24 and December 29. In Clarkston alone, four people faced similar charges, prompting local officials to express concern about the troubling trend.
Clarkston Police Chief Josh Daniel noted, “It was a pretty busy holiday weekend for DUI arrests. It seemed to be a little more this year than in previous years.” This observation raises alarms as authorities prepare for an even busier New Year’s celebration, with the police force fully staffed to combat the ongoing issue.
While the Lewiston Police Department did not provide immediate comments, they confirmed two DUI arrests during the same period. Additionally, the Idaho State Police apprehended two more, and deputies from the Nez Perce County Sheriff’s Office accounted for four arrests. Notably, more than half of the county’s arrests over the five days were related to drunken driving, emphasizing the severity of the situation.
In total, Nez Perce County saw just 17 bookings in its jail, with the DUI arrests occurring as follows: two on Christmas Eve, none on Christmas Day, and the remaining six distributed throughout the subsequent days. The county’s other arrests included individuals charged with outstanding warrants and various misdemeanors.
In Clarkston, a total of 14 arrests were made, including the four DUI cases. The incidents occurred predominantly on the city’s north end, a bustling area near the Blue Bridge and popular retail spots like Costco and Walmart. Among the DUI offenders, one was a 17-year-old driver, highlighting the urgent need for responsible behavior during holiday festivities.
Chief Daniel urged partygoers to make wise choices this New Year’s Eve, saying, “I hope people drink responsibly and take up offers of free rides and use designated drivers.” His message resonates as communities brace for potential spikes in DUI incidents.
As the festivities continue, the call for vigilance is clear. Authorities are reminding the public of the importance of making safe decisions during celebrations. This developing story underscores the pressing need for caution as New Year’s approaches, with police ready to enforce the law and keep roads safe for everyone.
Stay tuned for more updates as this situation unfolds and remember, the holiday spirit should not come at the cost of safety.
